Autonomous bus taking center stage, according to Transport Minister Schnieder

In the heart of Germany, a groundbreaking project is underway. The "Albus", a large autonomous public bus, is currently being tested on the roads of Burgdorf near Hannover. This bus, equipped with sensors, hardware, and software for fully automated operation, is the result of a partnership between Turkish manufacturer Karsan and project partner Adastec.

Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schneider was present for a test ride of the "Albus" project. He described the experience as impressive and the project as groundbreaking. After a few meters, the test ride felt completely normal according to Minister Schneider.

The "Albus" test is being carried out with the support of Adastec, the project partner that developed the autonomy system for the bus. A driver accompanies the bus during the test phase, ready to intervene if necessary.

If the test is successful, three of these buses will be integrated into the public transport network in the Hannover region. This would mark a significant step forward for Germany in the movement towards autonomous vehicles.

Minister Schneider believes that Germany's automotive industry, suppliers, and start-ups have the capability to excel in this field. He sees autonomous driving as the future.

The "Albus" is currently traveling at 8 meters long and has 22 seats. It recognizes people who want to board and performs actions automatically during the ride. While it is being used in the test phase with a driver, the ultimate goal is for it to operate autonomously.

The test phase will continue until the end of the year, with the bus traveling up to 40 km/h on a 7-kilometer route in Burgdorf. This test phase is part of Germany's efforts to be a leader in the development of autonomous vehicles.

Similar approaches with autonomous minibuses already exist elsewhere, but the "Albus" is unique in integrating autonomous driving into public transport with a large bus. This could pave the way for a future where public transportation is safer, more efficient, and more accessible.

Germany's progress in autonomous vehicle technology is a testament to its commitment to innovation and its ambition to lead in this rapidly evolving field. The "Albus" project is just one example of how Germany is shaping the future of transportation.